Legal practice places heavy demands on the cognitive skills needed for planning, focus, time management, and follow-through—often described as executive functioning. This two-part, in-person CLE presentation brings together mental health and practice management professionals to provide complementary perspectives on these challenges. Participants will hear first from the Oregon Attorney Assistance Program about the human and cognitive experience of working under pressure, followed by the Practice Management Assistance Program about practical, systems-based
approaches to reduce cognitive load and support a sustainable practice. The CLE seminar will be held on Tuesday May 12, 2026, from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the Courtyard by Marriott, 600 Airport Road, Medford, Oregon. The cost is $15.00 and includes lunch.
Part I: Executive Functioning for Legal Professionals: Supporting Productivity, Well-Being, and Sustainable Practice – Kyra Hazilla and Bryan Welch, OAAP Attorney Counselors
Practicing law requires much of legal professionals. This presentation invites lawyers to take a compassionate look at executive functioning — the skills that help us plan, focus, manage time, regulate emotions, and follow through in demanding work. The stress and cognitive demands of legal practice are well-documented, and legal professionals experience high rates of cognitive overload and burnout. Grounded in the idea that executive functioning exists on a spectrum, the program normalizes common struggles without questioning competence, commitment, or professionalism. Participants will explore how the structure and pace of legal practice place real strain on these skills—even for capable and experienced legal professionals—and will leave feeling less alone, better understood, and equipped with tools they can use right away in their day-to-day practice.
Part II: Practical Ways to Lower Risk and Sustain Performance – Rita Alister, PLF Practice Management Attorney
Building on the foundation set forth in the first hour, the second hour shifts to practical, systems-based solutions. This session focuses on practical, thoughtfully designed office systems, workflows, and habits that can reduce cognitive load, support consistency, and lower malpractice risk. Attendees will leave with concrete tools they can adapt to their own practices to support performance, sustainability, and risk reduction.
This CLE seminar has been approved for 1 MHSU and 1 Practical Skills MCLE credits.
Registration deadline is Friday, May 8, 2026, at noon.
PLEASE NOTE: The PLF and OAAP are committed to providing accessible events. For accessibility or accommodation requests or other questions, please call 503.639.6911 or toll-free 800.452.1639 or email [email protected] at least 72 hours before the date of the CLE seminar.